FOR MANY years she has been busy behind the scenes improving the quality of life for the disabled in Eastleigh.

But now Dolly Dawes, who is a wheelchair user, has deservedly taken centre stage to be saluted for her tireless work.

She was nominated as a local hero volunteer by Eastleigh MP David Chidgey in the Experience Corps Awards 2003.

The MP presented her with a special certificate in a ceremony in the mayor's parlour.

It was in recognition of her long-term work with numerous projects involving the disabled in Eastleigh.

She was a major driving force in developing Eastleigh's Shopmobility Scheme. This gave the disabled the freedom of the town's shopping streets by providing a fleet of motorised vehicles.

She has also vigorously campaigned to provide better wheelchair access at public buildings and stores in the town centre.

Presenting the certificate, Mr Chidgey said: "Volunteers like Dolly make Eastleigh a better place for disabled residents to live in."

Mayor Councillor Glynn Davies-Dear described Dolly as a "well loved and very popular person in Eastleigh".

Dolly said she was "thrilled to bits" with her award.